If you’re craving a sandwich that captures the festive spirit and comfort of a homemade meal, look no further than Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches. This vibrant creation blends tender shredded turkey with tangy Dijon, crunchy toasted almonds, and bursts of sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped up with creamy whipped cream cheese and fresh greens. It’s a colorful, flavorful sandwich that feels special yet easy to whip up anytime you want a lunch that delights every bite.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element adds its own unique touch—from the savory turkey and creamy mayonnaise to the crunch of almonds and the lively flavor of the cranberry sauce. Together, they create a balanced mix of texture, taste, and color that makes every sandwich extraordinary.

2 cups cooked turkey meat, shredded: Choose white, dark, or a mix for perfect protein and texture.
1 to 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy binder that holds the salad together.
2 tablespoons coarse ground Dijon mustard: Adds a punch of tangy spice to elevate flavor.
1 celery rib, diced thinly: Provides a refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness.
1/2 cup almonds, lightly toasted: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the mix.
1 cup whole cranberry sauce: Delivers a sweet and tart burst that brightens each bite.
4 ounces whipped cream cheese: Light and fluffy, it balances sweetness and richness beautifully.
Butter lettuce & radicchio lettuces: Soft leaves with a slight bitterness that add color and freshness.
Microgreens (arugula, kale, red kale, etc.): Perfect for a peppery, tender bite that lifts the sandwich.
8 slices whole wheat bread: Nutty and wholesome, it holds everything together deliciously.

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches

Step 1: Mix the Turkey Salad

Start by combining the shredded turkey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, diced celery, toasted almonds, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This step is where all those contrasting textures and flavors start to meld, creating a creamy yet crunchy turkey salad that’s packed with smoky, savory goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Greens

Take four slices of whole wheat bread and spread each with about 1 ounce of the whipped cream cheese. Top the cream cheese layers with generous spoonfuls of whole cranberry sauce to add that beautiful sweet-tart note. On the other four bread slices, lay down a base of butter lettuce and radicchio leaves for freshness and a slight bitter balance to the sweet cranberry. Add a handful of microgreens for a pop of vibrant color and fresh pepperiness.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

On the bread layered with greens, spoon the turkey salad generously, then carefully place the cream cheese and cranberry sauce-topped bread slices on top to form your sandwiches. Press down gently to hold everything in place. Finish by slicing each sandwich diagonally to show off the colorful layers inside. This step is satisfying because you get to see the gorgeous medley of colors and textures that promise exceptional flavor with every bite.

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches

Garnishes

Enhance your sandwiches with a sprinkle of crushed toasted almonds on top for an added crunch. A few fresh sprigs of microgreens make an elegant garnish that also intensifies the fresh flavor. Serve with a small side of extra cranberry sauce for dipping or spreading as desired.

Side Dishes

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with light and crisp sides like a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, crunchy pickles, or a bowl of homemade vegetable soup. The fresh, tangy sides complement the rich, creamy turkey salad perfectly while keeping your meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely party platter, cut your Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches into smaller, bite-sized triangles and arrange them on a board with colorful bowls of cranberry sauce and extra toasted almonds. Layering with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs adds a festive flair. Alternatively, wrap them individually for a grab-and-go picnic that feels both elegant and comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the turkey salad mixture separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep your sandwich bread and additional cranberry sauce chilled separately until ready to assemble fresh sandwiches for best texture.

Freezing

Because of the fresh lettuce and creamy elements, it’s best not to freeze the assembled sandwiches. However, you can freeze leftover shredded turkey on its own to use later in this or other recipes. Thaw completely in the fridge before mixing into the salad.

Reheating

These sandwiches are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature to preserve the textures and contrast of flavors. If your turkey salad feels too cold, let it sit out for about 10 minutes before assembling. Avoid microwaving once assembled, as it can make the bread soggy and affect the fresh ingredients.

FAQs

Can I substitute the turkey for another protein?

Absolutely! Chicken works wonderfully in this recipe, or leftover ham for a different twist. Just shred or chop your choice into bite-sized pieces to maintain the texture balance.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the whipped cream cheese?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese or a smooth avocado spread to keep the creamy element while accommodating dairy restrictions.

Can I make the turkey salad ahead of time?

Yes, the turkey salad can be prepared up to a day in advance without losing its flavor or texture. Just stir gently before assembling the sandwiches.

What kind of cranberry sauce should I use?

Whole cranberry sauce works best to give bursts of flavor and texture. Homemade or store-bought options are both great, just avoid overly sweetened varieties for the best balance.

How can I make this sandwich more kid-friendly?

For picky eaters, consider reducing the Dijon mustard or omitting the radicchio lettuce to soften the flavors. Toasted almonds can be chopped finer or replaced with sunflower seeds for a milder crunch.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches are truly a beloved favorite that bring joy to any meal with their wonderful mix of flavors and textures. Whether for a cozy lunch or sharing with friends on a picnic, this recipe is a celebration of fresh, comforting ingredients coming together in an unforgettable way. I encourage you to try making this sandwich soon—you might just find a new go-to that brightens your sandwich game forever!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 25 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Salad Sandwiches offer a delightful combination of savory shredded turkey mixed with tangy Dijon mustard, crunchy almonds, and crisp celery, balanced perfectly by the sweetness of cranberry sauce and the creaminess of whipped cream cheese. Served on whole wheat bread with fresh butter lettuce, radicchio, and microgreens, these sandwiches make for a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Instructions

Prepare the turkey salad: In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded turkey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, diced celery, toasted almonds, and salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed and the turkey is fully coated.
Assemble the sandwiches base: Spread the prepared turkey salad evenly onto 4 slices of whole wheat bread. Layer each with butter lettuce, radicchio, and a handful of microgreens for added freshness and texture.
Add cream cheese and cranberry layer: Spread about 1 ounce of whipped cream cheese on the remaining 4 slices of bread. Then, spoon a few generous tablespoons of whole cranberry sauce over the cream cheese to add sweetness and tang.
Combine and serve: Place the cranberry cream cheese slices on top of the turkey salad-covered bread to form sandwiches. Slice each sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Use leftover roasted turkey or freshly cooked turkey breast for best flavor.
Adjust mayonnaise quantity to preference for creaminess or lighter salad.
Lightly toast the almonds to enhance their crunch and flavor.
For a healthier option, use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Whole wheat bread adds fiber and nutrition, but you can substitute with gluten-free bread if needed.
Make the turkey salad a few hours ahead to let flavors meld, but assemble sandwiches right before serving to keep bread from getting soggy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Lunch, Sandwich
Method: No-cook assembly
Cuisine: American